AN INSIGHT INTO A TRAINEE'S LIFE AT B P COLLINS LLP

From science to solicitor

Three and a half years ago I stepped foot in B P Collins for the first time to begin a work experience placement in thefamily department, with no idea what was to come. I had just graduated with a degree in Biological Sciences before coming to the realisation that the labs weren’t for me and I wanted to pursue a different career path.

“B P Collins was my first experience in the legal world and after two it had confirmed that I wanted to pursue a career as a solicitor.”

B P Collins was my first experience in the legal world and after two weeks it had confirmed that I wanted to pursue a career as a solicitor. I went away and completed my law conversion (unbeknown to me signing up to the January fast track stream due to my eagerness to get started as soon as possible).

“I felt comfortable from the day that I walked into the firm due to the friendly working environment and the ability to easily approach people with my questions”.

Once I had completed my law conversion I started work as a paralegal and I soon realised that the academic world that I had been used to was a far cry from the actual working reality of a solicitor’s day to day. An opening came about for a paralegal role at B P Collins and I was soon back at the firm where it all began, little did I know (albeit hopeful) that I would also secure a training contract. I felt comfortable from the day that I walked into the firm due to the friendly working environment and the ability to easily approach people with my questions.

“Not only have the team been supportive but everybody across the firm, particularly the trainees, who have been there to any questions I have had.”

Even having been away from the firm for over a year to complete my LPC (and enjoy a few months to travel), I felt excited about the prospect of returning and starting life as a trainee. I didn’t know what to expect and if it would feel that different. In reality it has been different with an increased responsibility and wider variety of tasks, however it didn’t feel so daunting having gained confidence through my role as a paralegal. Not only have the team been supportive but everybody across the firm, particularly the trainees, who have been there to answer any questions I have had. I’m looking forward to the challenges that await across the different seats in the next couple of years.

Sarah joined the private client practice group as a paralegal in January 2017 beforestarting her training contract in March 2019. Her role is to provide assistance to
partners and other fee earners in the practice group.